Scott Co, Iowa USGenWeb Project
Thomas Dougherty, Bio
"From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott county" by Harry E. Downer
- S.
J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago, Ill.
Surnames: Dougherty - Carmichael
Thomas Dougherty, president of Schick's Express & Transfer Company of
Davenport, is numbered among the native sons of Scott county and his life
history is familiar to his fellow citizens, who have watched his development
from boyhood days. He is lacking in none of those qualities which
constitute
the resourceful and successful business man and in his present position of
executive control is proving that his administration accomplishes the utmost
for the interests invested.
Mr. Dougherty was born in Scott county, October 30, 1865, and his education
was acquired in St. Ambrose school and in the Davenport Business College.
He
became collector for the Schick's Express & Transfer Company in 1903 and
bent
every effort toward familiarizing himself with and mastering the business in
order that he might be qualified for enlarged dutied when the opportunity
came for advancement. In 1905, when the company was reorganized, he became
president and manager and has since carefully and successfully controlled the
interests of the business. On the 22d of September, 1904, Mr. Dougherty
was
married to Miss Eula Carmichael, a native of Davenport and a daughter of
Henry Carmichael, one of the old residents of this city who has long been
associated with the Boston Store. Mr. Dougherty belongs to the Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks and to the Woodmen of the World, and is well
known socially in this city, where the greater part of his life has been
passed.
The above bio was transcribed for the Iowa, Scott county Site.
Transcribed by Debbie Clough G-erischer
George and David Nugent, Bio
"From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott county" by Harry E. Downer
- S.
J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago, Ill
Surnames: Nugent - Plett - Fridley
Among the many earnest men who are daily proving the fertility of the soil of
Blue Grass township, are George and David Nugent, who in conjunction own and
operate the farm upon which they live. Natives of this county, they were
born in 1858 and 1861, respectively, being the sons of John and M. J. Nugent.
The father was born in Ireland in 1821, and in 1848, at the beginning of
the
hard times which oppressed his native isle for the next few years, came to
the United States. First he settled in New Jersey, where he lived for
about
five years, and then in 1853 came to Scott county, Iowa. During the first
two years after his arrival he worked on various farms in Blue Grass
township, and then, in 1855, having married he bought the place on which his
two sons are living today. It remained his home for the next sixteen years
of his life, and though his death occurred in 1878, he had lived long enough
to obtain some idea of the progress which would transform the appearance of
the country in the course of years. He and his wife were the parents of
five
children, those besides the subjects of this sketch being Thomas, who is also
a resident of Blue Grass township; James, who lives in Casey, Iowa; and Mary,
who is the wife of Charles Plett, of Muscatine, Iowa.
Natives of this county, George and David Nugent have passed their entire
lives within its confines. They were pupils in the public schools of their
locality and the education they received was supplemented by practical
training in farm work, which they acquired under the guidance of their
father. Indeed, as they were both young when they were deprived of his
love
and care, they had to early assume responsibilities which in many cases fall
to the lot of men. The place which had been associated with memories of
childhood and which they had come to know thoroughly through the passage of
years, has remained their home to the present. It is a rich and arable
tract, is well improved and cultivated with a skill that bespeaks the
character of the born husbandman. They have been sparing of neither
industry
nor expense to bring their place to a productive state and may feel justly
recompensed by the size of the harvest and the consequent generous income
that falls to their share annually.
In early manhood George Nugent wedded Miss Ella Fridley, but she died two
years after her marriage, while David Nugent has never married. They have
steadfastly given their support to the republican party, in the years that
they have been able to exercise their right of franchise, but though
interested have taken little part in local affairs. George, however,
served
one term as trustee of the township but has never desired further evidence of
the respect and good opinion of his fellow citizens. Industrious and
excellent managers, both George and David Nugent may be pardoned a moderate
pride in their achievements, for in addition to maintaining the home place in
a good condition they have been able to purchase one hundred and sixty acres
in Yuma county, Colorado.
The above bio was transcribed for the Iowa, Scott county Site.
Transcribed by Debbie Clough G-erischer
A
Biographical Sketch of Patrick T. Walsh
"From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County" by Harry E. Downer
- S.
J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surname list with this bio: WALSH - BURNS - CODY - PELAMORGOUR - BEECHER
Who does not know and like Patrick T. Walsh? The root of the uniform
regard
in which he is held is found in his own life, sterling traits of character
winning him the confidence and good will of the rich, his kindliness and
charity the friendship and gratitude of the poor. Perhaps the real test of
a
man is found in his relation to his employes. The opportunity of
overbearance and for strict and inconsiderate regulations is his as well as
the opportunity for the exercise of a spirit of fraternal appreciation and
helpfulness. In this Patrick T. Walsh has chosen the better part and no
greater loyalty is to be anywhere found than is manifest toward him by his
employes from the humblest to the companies operating throughout the entire
country on various lines of construction work. Wealth and success have
crowned him in his later years, but his early experiences brought him want
and hardships. It is this perhaps that has made him sympathetic and
helpful
toward those who are undergoing a struggle similar to that which he
experienced.
Davenport is proud to number him as a citizen and as a native son. He was
here born March 17, 1855, his parents being John and Mary (Burns) Walsh, both
of whom were natives of County Clare, Ireland. The father came to this
city
from the old country in 1848, having crossed the Atlantic on a sailing vessel
which was six weeks in completing that voyage. He landed at New Orleans
and
made his way up the Mississippi river to Davenport. Both he and his wife
were members of the Catholic church. His death occurred in 1887, when he
was
seventy-seven years of age. In their family were eight children, of whom
only two are now living, the sister Margaret, the wife of John Cody, of
Davenport.
The surviving son, Patrick T. Walsh, was educated in Father Pelamorgour's
Catholic school and when eleven years of age began work in the French and
Davies sawmill, where he spent two summers in packing shingles and later
carried water on the big cut in west Davenport for one summer. He next
became an apprenticed stonecutter on the Rock Island arsenal. He remained
at
the arsenal for eleven years and then occurred a circumstance which forced
him to seek other employment. It was in the '80s that the stonecutters of
Davenport and vicinity determined to make a stand for eight hours per day and
Mr. Walsh became a leader among his fellow workmen. The men succeeded at
last in winning that for which they were contesting, but Mr. Walsh at the end
of the time was lableled as an agitator and was forced to seek other
employment. It was this that eventually led him into the construction
business. He had not planned to enter the field but, when losing his
position at Rock Island, he turned his attention to any work that he could
find, doing such minor and unpretentious jobs as digging cellars, running
drains, digging sewers and street work generally. Gradually he extended
his
efforts and in the course of years has built up one of the notable successes
of the country. To the opportunity then presented there was supplemented
the
sterling character of the man of plunk, that quality which scales barriers
and wins victories on every field of human endeavor. Gradually his
business
extended, and it was not long before he had gained a foothold in the
construction field. To him was awarded a contract for a "fill"
on the
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad at Galva, Illinois, and since that
time
he has had many gangs of steam-shovel men at work. It has ever been
characteristic of Mr. Walsh that he has promoted his men as they have shown
capability and fidelity, and many who entered his service as shovel men have
become high-class superintendents and master mechanics. Among the things
in
which he takes special delight is the substantial advance made by his
faithful subordinates. He has awakened unfaltering support by his belief
in
his men, has constantly spoken to them words of encouragement and
appreciation and the men on their part give to him the utmost fidelity and
the best service of which they are capable. Possibly it is owing to this
factor that the Walsh Construction Company can afford to give better terms
than many of its competitors. Zeal and loyalty count in a construction
proposition as well as in other walks. The growth of the business has
continued year by year until interests are conducted under ten separate
corporations, of all of which Mr. Walsh is the president, and every one of
the various adjuncts has grown up under his fostering care and careful
guidance. The relationship which exists in a well ordered family only
adequately reflects the harmony and understanding that dwells in this great
organization, which is doubtless the keynote to its big success. At the
present these construction companies are engaged in building railroads from
coast to coast. Mr. Walsh has been awarded many contracts for the erection
of buildings, the one in which he takes special pride being the Sacred Heart
Catholic Cathedral of Davenport, Iowa. There are a few industries of
Davenport of any importance that have not felt the stimulus of his
cooperation and have benefited by his assistance and councel. He is also
connected with the Scott County Bank and three other banking institutions.
On the 1st of June, 1881, Mr. Walsh was married to Miss Catherine Beecher,
and they have five living children: Mary, the wife of E. J. Walsh; Thomas,
who is with his father in business; Katherine, Gertrude and Edward, at
home.
He and his family are members of the Catholic church.
It is known that Mr. Walsh favors every project for the public good and
cooperates liberally and influentially in support of movements that have been
of the utmost benefit to the city. He is of a kindly nature, of genial and
jovial disposition, and like many self-made men is easy to approach and
displays thoughtful consideration of others. His life experiences have
made
him a philosopher. A trade magazine comments on this phase of his life in
the following words: "He is simple and unaffected in manner yet deep
and
profound in his conclusions on important topics. Speaking of gaining
success
in life, he said success can be classified as that quality which prompts the
average individual to 'move up' as he enters the crowded street car of
life.
'About the entrance the crowd huddles together and the congestion is being
gradually added to by the incoming passengers,' said Mr. Walsh. 'Finally
some one gets aboard whose disposition and temperament is to "move up"
where
there is more room, and, while he bumps some of the passengers and gets
jostled himself, he reaches the place where there is more room and a better
atmosphere and really makes it more satisfactory for the crowd he passed on
his way to comfort.' How true this is."
The same paper in commenting upon other features in his life history says:
"The example set by the Walsh Construction Company in providing so
generously
for its employes has set a standard which other companies have had
approximately to reach, so that a benefit has been conferred upon the whole
line of the dirt-moving contingent. Treating men with consideration for
their needs and supplying them with the best that is going is a big factor in
maintaining efficiency, and with a force working at high pitch results
obtained are often a subject of wonderment even to those interested.
"Mr. Walsh has put many a discouraged man on his feet and he has given the
hand of recognition to the forlorn which gave them a new start in life.
His
influence has been shown in encouraging a civic pride in Davenport and many
of the city's developments owe a great deal to his timely interest and broad
generousity."
Transcribed by Debbie Clough G-erischer
Biography of Addison H. Sanders
“From Vol. 2 History
of Davenport and Scott County" by Harry E. Downer - S. J. Clarke Publishing
Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Sanders, Kirkwood, Baldwin, Chambers, Baker,
Grant
Addison H. Sanders was born on the
13th of September, 1823 in Cincinnati Ohio. His education was begun in a
printing office of his native city and completed at Cincinnati College. In 1845
and again in 1846 he came to Davenport where his brother, Alfred, was struggling
to put his Gazette on a paying basis. During each of these visits he stayed
several months taking editorial charge of the paper and thus relieving his
overworked brother so that he might bring the business department into better
condition. When the city had grown large enough to demand a daily paper, Addison
H. Sanders removed to Davenport, in October 1856, took editorial charge of the
Daily Davenport Gazette and continued in that position until he entered the
Union Army. At the beginning of the Civil War no newspaper in Iowa had wider
influence than the Daily Gazette of Davenport.
Early in 1861 Addison H. Sanders
was commissioned aid to Governor Kirkwood, serving with Judge Baldwin of Council
Bluffs and later in the year he was placed in command of Camp McClellan, at
Davenport, where the Union volunteers were mustering for the organization of
regiments and for drill. The Sixteenth Regiment was organized early in the
winter of 1862 and Governor Kirkwood was so impressed with the excellent work
and superior qualifications of Addison H. Sanders that he offered him the
position of colonel of the new regiment. But having observed the disadvantage of
placing inexperienced officers at the head of new regiments, he declined the
command, urging the selection of a regular army officer for the place. The
governor and General Baker realized the wisdom of such a selection and Captain
Alexander Chambers of the Eighteenth United States Infantry was appointed
colonel and Mr. Sanders was commissioned lieutenant colonel. The regiment
received its "baptism of fire" at the desperate and bloody battle of
Shiloh and at Corinth Lieutenant Colonel Sanders was wounded very severely. He
did gallant service during the war, often in command of the regiment. At the
battle of Atlanta, July 22, 1864, Colonel Sanders was taken prisoner, suffering
everything but death in the Confederate prison, and when exchanged was so low
with starvation and fever that for a long time his recovery was doubtful.
On the 2d of April, 1865, General
Sanders was discharged from the service for disability, having been brevetted
brigadier general for gallant conduct
on many battlefields. Upon his return home he was appointed postmaster of
Davenport. In 1870 he was appointed by President Grant secretary of Montana
territory and became acting governor. In 1872 he was appointed registrar of the
United States land office for Montana. He
returned to his old home at Davenport, where for many years he was engaged in
editorial work on several of the daily papers. As a writer General Sanders for a
third of a century ranked among the ablest in the state. He is now enjoying the
reminiscent twilight of a long and active life in his latest home in sunny
Georgia.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann for the Scott Co, IA
USGenWeb Project
Severn Schindler Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Schindler, Clark, Langley, Dodge, Weaver, Brus,
Severin Schindler, deceased, who
for many years was identified with mining and agricultural interests in Scott
county, was born in Baden, Germany, on the 2d of September, 1835. There he was
reared and educated and in 1854 came to America, thinking in this country to
find better opportunities for business advancement than were offered in the old
world. He located first in Pennsylvania, where he was engaged in farming and
coal mining for about twenty two months, and then removed to Pomeroy, Ohio,
where he worked in the rolling mills, stone quarries and salt mines until the
spring of 1858. He then went to St. Paul Minnesota, and soon after settled in
Minersville, Illinois, where he was employed in the mines for some time.
Subsequently, he came to Scott county, locating in Buffalo, where he mined for
Captain W. L. Clark, a Mr. Langley, and Captain LeRoy Dodge. Later he opened up
a mine of his own, which he operated for two years, and then, in 1870, settled
upon a farm in Buffalo township, where he continued to make his home until the
time of his death. The property consisted of ninety acres of land, upon which he
carried on general agricultural pursuits, and in this line of activity he was
very successful, as he had ever been in his various other business enterprises,
industry, energy and perseverance being his salient characteristics.
On the 1st of March,
1859, Mr. Schindler was united in marriage to Miss Emma Weaver, a native of
Hessen Germany, and a daughter of Otto and Katrina Weaver, also born in the
fatherland. Unto this union were born three children, two daughters and one son,
namely: Rosa, the wife of Charles Brus, of Blue Grass township; and Anna and
John, still under the parental roof. Mr. Schindler was called to his final rest
on the 8th of June, 1903, and his death was the occasion of deep
regret not only in the home where he had been a loving father and husband, but
also in the community where he had gained many friends who held him in the
highest respect and esteem because of his many excellent traits of character.
John Schindler, the son, who was
born on the 29th of December, 1871, attended the country schools near
his father’s home in the acquirement of an education, and has always remained
upon the home farm, wisely choosing as his life work the occupation to which he
had been reared. He has had entire charge of the homestead since the death of
his father and has never married devoting his time to the care of his widowed
mother and one sister who still resides at home. The family are all members of
the Catholic church and occupy a high place in the social circles of the
community, while in politics John Schindler is a stalwart republican. The honors
and emoluments of office, however, have had no attraction for him, as he prefers
to concentrate his energies upon the conduct of his business affairs, which,
capably managed, are proving a source of substantial profit. He is a young man
who, having passed his entire life within the borders of Buffalo township, has
gained a circle of friends which is almost coextensive with the circle of his
acquaintances and is numbered among the progressive and enterprising
agriculturists of the locality.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann
for the Scott Co, IA USGenWeb Project
George
W. Bawden Bio
From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Bawden, Ficke, Lischer, Neal, Eldridge
The history of the Davenport bar contains no more illustrious name than
of George W. Bawden, whose professional integrity and honor were unquestioned,
while his skill and power in the conduct of litigated interests are evidenced by
the court records, which chronicle many cases that he won through his elocution,
logic and correct application of the law. He was born in Norristown,
Pennsylvania, in 1859, and when but two years of age was brought to Davenport by
his parents. Theodore Roosevelt has said that “the best type of American
citizens are those of eastern birth and western training,” and such was the
life of Mr. Bawden, who in the environment of a growing western city spent his
youthful days, acquiring his education in its public schools, his studies being
continued until he completed the high school course. He determined upon the
practice of law as his life work and to this end entered the Iowa State
University, in which he completed the law course and was graduated. Following
his admission to the bar he returned to Davenport and entered the office of C.
A. Ficke, with whom he remained for a short time, in 1880. He had but just
attained his majority when he entered upon the practice of law and, with the
energy and determination of young manhood, he sought to prove his strength in
the legal field in competition with lawyers of broad experience and twice his
years. He went to Muscatine and took advantage of a legal opening, and continued
as a representative of the bar in that city until October, 1895, when he
returned to Davenport and entered upon practice here in connection with the late
Julius Lischer, under the firm name of Lischer & Bawden. In 1901 the
admission of a third partner led to the adoption of the firm name of Lischer,
Bawden & Neal which was retained until the death of the senior partner in
1902, came recognized as a conscientious and able lawyer, devoting himself to
the interests of his clients yet never forgetting for a moment that there were
certain things which he owed to his own self-respect and to the righteous
administration of the law.
He rendered capable service to his city through two terms’ connection
with the council as representative from the fifth ward. He declined to serve
longer, although his constituents wished to retain him in office, and he also
declined to accept the candidacy for mayor. For one year he was a citizen member
of the board of health. His political support was always given to the republican
party, of which he was one of the local leaders, his opinions carrying weight in
its councils. He eagerly embraced every opportunity to aid in the city’s
development and progress and he gave not only valuable legal counsel but also
the enthusiasm of a patriotic man toward securing the building of the Iowa
Illinois Interurban line from Davenport to Clinton. As counsel for the Iowa
& Illinois Railroad he piloted that company through the legal entanglements
that beset the securing of a franchise and again and again appeared before the
city council to argue contested points.
Mr. Bawden was married in 1885 to Miss Jennie Eldridge, a daughter of J.
M. Eldridge, one of the best known and most honored residents of Davenport to
the time of his death. Mr. And Mrs. Bawden had three sons: Albert R., George Ray
and Harry. The death of Mr. Bawden occurred on the 23d of March, 1905. He was a
devoted member of the First Presbyterian church, belonged to the Davenport
Turner Society and was one of the most esteemed members of the Scott County Bar
Association. His ability and integrity as a lawyer were recognized by all, his
honesty being one of his strongest characteristics. He would never urge a client
into a suit for the sake of the fees, but on the contrary hesitated in taking
any case unless he was assured of the justice of the case—a course from which
there are too many professional lapses. No representative of the bench and bar
has been more honored by the legal fraternity of Davenport, not only because of
his professional honor and ability but also on account of his personal worth in
all life’s relations.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann for the Scott Co, IA
USGenWeb Project
C. B. Snyder Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Snyder, Jacobs, Haile, Heller, Lincoln, Baker,
Stone, Skelton, Fox, Rowling, Smith, Shaw, Roies
The great development which has
marked the passage of years in this county and state has been witnessed and
participated in by C. B. Snyder, who came with his parents to Allens Grove
township twenty-six days before Iowa was admitted to statehood. On the last day
of November, 1846, after dark, the family crossed the Mississippi river, on the
old horse ferry that was then in use, and located one mile east of where the
town of Dixon now stands. There was little at that time, however, to indicate
the future growth of this section of the state, but the father believed that he
was not making a mistake in locating here. Years have proved the correctness of
his choice, both in the case of his own achievements and those of his son, C. B.
Snyder.
The latter was born in Huron county, Ohio, near Chicago Junction, May 18,
1838, a son of Simon and Susannah (Jacobs) Snyder. The parents were both natives
of Pennsylvania, the father of Mount Bethel, and the mother of Philadelphia.
They were married in Tompkins county, New York, however, for there Mr. Snyder,
who was following the tanners’ trade at that time, had built a tannery. Later
they removed to Huron county, Ohio, and thence to Scott county, Iowa, where the
remaining years of their lives were spent. Here Mr. Snyder followed farming with
such profit that before he divided his property among his children he was
possessed of several hundred acres. Seven children had been granted to him and
his wife. Ephraim is deceased. Roswell B. and Richard J. were drowned in the
Wapsie river in 1848. Rudolph S. enlisted, August, 1861, in Company C. Second
Iowa Cavalry, serving until the close of the Civil war. He is now a resident of
Dixon. C. B. is the subject of this sketch. Daniel enlisted in the Second Iowa
Cavalry and served during three years of the Civil war. He is now living in
Grand Mound, Clinton county, Iowa. John is a resident of Allens Grove township.
He was strong in supporting the principles of the republican party in the early
days and was a Methodist in religious belief.
C. B. Snyder was about eight years
of age when his parents came to Scott county, where he has since resided, living
upon the homestead in Allens Grove township until he reached the age of
twenty-five, when he engaged in agriculture for himself. He then bought the
three hundred and thirty acres in Liberty township adjoining the corporate
limits of the town of Dixon, which has since been his home. Now it is highly
cultivated but the improvements and even the cultivation of the greater part of
it are the result of Mr. Snyder’s own efforts, for much of the land he had had
to be broken when it came into his possession. Many large and handsome buildings
adorn the ground, including a commodious dwelling house and ample accommodation
for the shelter of his stock, to which he has given much of his attention.
Indeed, Mr. Snyder challenges any man in the state to exhibit a finer herd of
cattle than the ninety head which are his at present. They are full blooded
polled Angus stock, started from imported animals, and as he has been making a
specialty of breeding this strain for the past twenty years, he has as excellent
cattle of that kind as may be procured. Until the past year, Mr. Snyder also
made a specialty of raising sheep, but he has now forsaken that industry. He has
made a fine reputation for himself as a stockman and farmer and has won a large
and substantial revenue in compensation for his labors.
While of necessity so much of his time has been given to his private
concerns, Mr. Snyder has not failed to devote many years to the service of his
fellow citizens, by whom he has been several times honored with evidences of
their confidence in him and his ability. During the administration of Abraham
Lincoln he was postmaster of Dixon. He also served as township trustee for two
terms, acted as justice of the peace for a number of years, was a member of the
township school board and its president for a long period and was also a member
of the board of education of Dixon. Under Governor Stone he held a commission as
second lieutenant, which has never been recalled, and for a short time he also
held a commission under Adjutant General Baker.
On the 1st day of February, 1863, Mr. Snyder was united in
marriage to Miss Harriett Irene Haile, who was born in Liberty township, this
county, February 10, 1843, three years before Iowa became a state. Her parents
were James and Elizabeth (Heller) Haile, who were natives of Brookline,
Massachusetts, and Ohio respectively. In 1835 they came to Iowa, where they were
married and passed the remainder of their lives. For a number of years Mr. Haile
ran the old Wilson ferry at Davenport, when it was operated by horse power.
Three children were born to him and his wife, namely: Mrs. Snyder; Charles of
Oskaloosa, Iowa, and Cornelius, who died young.
Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have had thirteen children; Charles D., a resident of
Parma, Idaho; James Smith, who went to Alaska during the excitement attendant
upon the discovery of gold there and has not been heard from since; John F., of
Alfalfa, Washington; Ella, the wife of s. M. Skelton, of Caldwell, Idaho;
Elizabeth, the wife of E. T. Fox, of Parma, Idaho; Mary, the wife of M. E.
Rowling, of Davenport; Henry, of Dixon; Lee H., an engineer upon the Rock Island
Railroad, who makes his home in Rock Island, Illinois; Rudolph, the United
States inspector of stock at Lemoore, California; Edith and Edna, twins the
former the wife of J. H. Smith, of Washta, Iowa, the latter at home; Raymond,
who lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he is in the employ of the Great
Northern Railroad; Maude H., a bookkeeper in Davenport; and Nancy who was an
orphan reared by Mr. and Mrs. Snyder and is now the wife of B. U. Shaw, of Big
Hole Valley, Montana.
Mr. Snyder has always been a republican and is a member of the Christian
church of Dixon, in which he is a trustee and elder. Among his other commercial
interests he is connected with the M. V. Roies Company, of davenport, the first
undertaking firm established in the city, which for more than thirty years has
been conducted under the same name. Mr. Snyder is now its president, proving
himself as able a man of business as a successful farmer. The long years of his
life have been attended with prosperity and he enjoys the unbounded respect and
esteem of his associates and friends.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann for the Scott Co, IA USGenWeb Project
Louis Brockmann Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S.. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Brockmann, Hagen, Koch, Meyer, Holtz,
Louis Brockmann has retired from active farming and now in his declining
years is able to look back over a well spent life. His present residence is in
Eldridge. His birthplace was Mecklenburg, Germany, his natal day being April 13,
1839, and his parents Frederick and Doris Brockmann. The father was in the
Napoleonic wars, his service including the year 1813. He was one of the town
officials and a prominent member and officer in the Lutheran church. He did not
leave his native land and departed this life in 1858.
Mr. Brockmann secured his education in the schools of Germany and in
course of time married. In 1866, some years after the death of his father, he
came to America with his wife and mother. They landed upon the eastern coast and
then after some consideration came to Davenport, Iowa. Mr. Brockmann looked
about him for some means of livelihood and secured work as a farm laborer. As
soon as opportunity presented he rented land in Butler township and prospered
steadily, in 1880 finding himself in a position to
buy a farm of one hundred and twenty acres near Long Grove. It was while
living upon this property that his mother died. In 1895 Mr. Brockmann and his
family removed to a farm in another part of Scott county. He added to his
property by purchasing eighty acres in Princeton township but subsequently sold
all his farming land and bought property in Eldridge, to which he removed upon
his retirement in 1901.
Previous to his coming to the United States, Mr. Brockmann married Miss
Eliza Hagen, November 1, 1865. Three children were born to this union: Hugo, of
Princeton township, who married Emma Koch and has three children, Mamie, Hilda
and Viola; Carl, a resident of Hickory Grove township, who married Laura Meyer
and has three children, Lona, Mildred and Arnold; and Meta, who is now Mrs.
Herman Holtz and has a daughter, Wilma.
Mr. Brockmann’s success has come entirely through his own efforts and
it has been considerable in view of the fact that he came to America with no
capital. Nothing is more intimately associated with the prosperity of a nation
than its agricultural interests and as a progressive and representative
agriculturist he has added to the sum total of
American well being.
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Julius C. Vogt Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Vogt,
Stange, Frahm, Kuehl, Thomson, Muhs
Julius C. Vogt is now living retired in the village of Mount Joy, but he
was for a number of years actively identified with the agricultural interests of
Sheridan township, where he owns one hundred and seventy acres of land. A native
of Scott county, he has passed his entire life in this section of Iowa, and as
he looks at the success which has attended his labors on the farm, he has no
reason to regret that he remained in a locality whose soil is so fertile.
He was born in Sheridan township, May 2, 1862, and is a son of Christian
and Cathrina Vogt, both natives of Holstein, German. The father was born May 22,
1822, and the mother March 5, 1823. In the land of his birth Christian Vogt
received a fair common-school education and gained some experience as a farmer.
When about twenty-five years of age he married and shortly afterward,
accompanied by his wife, embarked upon the ocean voyage to America, reaching New
York July 4, 1847. He came immediately to Scott county, and as he had a little
money he bought three hundred and forty acres of prairie land in Sheridan
township, for which he paid one dollar and a quarter an acre. He broke the soil,
built a house, made other improvements and engaged in general farming with such
success that about 1870 he was able to add one hundred and forty-six acres to
the original purchase. He had experienced many of the hardships of pioneer life
but had derived from his diligent cultivation of his fields a large income and
consequently in 1885 felt he was justified in removing to Davenport to spend the
rest of his life in retirement. There his death occurred March 31, 1905. When
admitted to citizenship, he espoused the cause of the republican party and ever
gave stanch allegiance to it. He was not an office seeker, however, although as
road supervisor and in other capacities he rendered the community efficient
service, his record ever being one which commanded universal respect. His wife
had died about two years before him, her death having occurred April 11, 1903.
They were the parents of seven children, namely: William, of Grinnell, Iowa;
Louisa, the deceased wife of Hugo Stange; Adoph, who has also passed away;
Emily, the wife of J. B. Frahm, of Davenport; Henry, deceased; Alvena, who
resides in Davenport; and Julius C., the subject of this sketch.
Julius c. Vogt has spent his entire life in Sheridan township and has
been identified with its agricultural pursuits from the time he was able to
assist in plowing, cultivating or harvesting. When of suitable age he became a
pupil in the district school near his home, therein deriving that fundamental
training that fitted him for later responsibilities. After he put aside his
text-books he operated the home farm in conjunction with his father until 1885,
when he married and assumed the full burden of its care, for Mr. Vogt, Sr.,
retired then and removed to Davenport. For almost a quarter of a century after
that date, Julius Vogt devoted all his time and thought to cultivating the one
hundred and seventy acres which are his and with each year saw a substantial
increase in the value of the harvests he reaped, for he spared no labor and made
a thorough study of the soil so that he obtained the best results possible. At
the same time he managed his affairs with sound business judgment that conserved
his resources and made possible his retirement to Mount Joy, in November, 1909.
Although so signally successful as a farmer, he was not blind to advantages to
be gained through connection with the financial world and accordingly secured
stock in the Farmers & Mechanics Bank, of Davenport.
On the 26th of march, 1885, Mr. Vogt was married to Miss
Amelia Kuehl, like her husband a native of Sheridan township and a daughter of
Claus and Elizabeth (Thomson) Kuehl. Her father was born December 3, 1830, and
died May 5, 1892, while her mother was born October 5, 1837, and died march 24,
1908. They came to Scott county in the early years of its settlement, and both
are now deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Vogt have been born five children, as
follows: Christ, who is at home; Emil, who married Miss Blanch Muhs, and lives
on the old homestead; Henry and Carl, who are twins and live at home; and Hilda,
also at home.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, Mr. Vogt has
stanchly supported the democratic party, on whose ticket he was elected to the
office of township trustee. For nine years he discharged the duties devolving
upon him while serving in that capacity. At present he is residing in Mount Joy,
in a pleasant home he built in 1909, where a generous hospitality is extended by
both Mr. and Mrs. Vogt to their large circle of friends. He belongs to the He
belongs to the Turner Society in Eldridge.
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John B. Miclot Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Miclot, Nathan, McDonald, Gallagher
John B. Miclot, assistant street commissioner, is as his name indicates,
of French origin, although a native of Davenport, where he was born August 12,
1863. His parents were Joseph M. and Julie (Nathan) Miclot, the father’s
birthplace being in France, where he enjoyed the advantages of a good education
and a thorough musical training. Upon coming to the land of the stars and
stripes and settling in Davenport he secured employment upon what is now a part
of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad. Later he engaged in the
grocery business on Brady street and proved sufficiently successful to continue
in it for eighteen years. He enjoyed a short retirement from business prior to
his death which occurred November 18, 1901. The mother of our subject was born
on Brady street where Trinity church now stands. Her father, Bryan Nathan, was
one of Davenport’s oldest settlers, arriving here in 1838 when the town was in
a decidedly primitive condition. Mr. Miclot, Sr. was survived by his wife less
than a year, her death occurring May 18,
1902.
John B. Miclot was educated in St. Anthony’s school and crossed the
threshold of his business career as a printer. Later he took up the trade of
molder, continuing in it for several years and finally accepting a position with
the Bettendorf Manufacturing Company. Here for six years he climbed steadily
upward and was successively foreman, assistant and superintendent. He then
entered the employ of the Bettendorf Axle Company, where he gave his services
for nine years. He severed this association to make an entire change of business
and commenced dealing in real estate and insurance, in which his fair methods
and keenness of perception have enabled him to acquire a fine clientage.
On October 11, 1893, Mr. Miclot was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie
Gallagher, of Long Grove, Iowa, a daughter of James and Bridget (McDonald)
Gallagher, the father a prominent farmer. They reside at 329 East Thirteenth
street, which property they own.
Mr. Miclot is a man of force and one who stands high in the esteem of his
fellowmen. He has numerous social affiliations. Of the Catholic faith, he holds
membership with the Knights of Columbus and the Sacred Heart Society and is also
identified with the Modern Woodmen, the Eagles and the Red Men.
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H. J. Flick Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Flick, Schultz, Flick, Brough, Bleum, Richey,
Graham, Jackson, Fitzgibbon,
One of the citizens of Dixon is H. J. Flick, who for more than a quarter
of a century has been the agent of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul
Railroad at this point. On his arrival in Scott county there was little to
indicate the presence of a village at the place were Dixon is now located nor
that it would become so prosperous a community. Not only has Mr. Flick witnessed
its growth and development but has the satisfaction of knowing that his efforts
have contributed no small share toward producing this state of affairs.
He was born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, January 26, 1838, a son of
George and Eliza (Schultz) Flick, both natives of the same county. The father
was of Hungarian parentage, while the maternal grandparents were of Pennsylvania
nativity. In 1853 George Flick moved his family to Columbiana county, Ohio,
where he engaged in farming and stock raising. A well deserved success attended
his efforts and the last years of his life were spent in Ohio in the enjoyment
of a substantial income. Eight children were born to him and his wife: Mary, now
the widow of John Brough, of Cleveland; Sarah, who became the wife of Lewis
Bleum, both now deceased; H. J., the subject of this sketch; Chauncey William,
who died in Columbiana county, Ohio, and served valiantly in the Civil war as a
member of the One Hundred and Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Norman, who served
for almost four years in the heavy artillery and died in Salem, Ohio; Ellen
Minerva, the wife of Daniel Richey, who resides near Salem, Ohio; Wilson, who
died at the age of four years; and Catherine, who died in infancy.
H. J. Flick removed with his parents
to Salem, Columbiana county, Ohio, in 1853, and there was employed in the mail
service for two years. Later he engaged in farm work under the direction of his
parents and then became interested in the oil wells in Beaver county,
Pennsylvania. He remained there, however but one year, coming April 19, 1867, to
davenport and the following day to Dixon, where he joined a brother-in-law,
Thomas Graham. After working upon his farm for several years he became the agent
for the railroad which was then known as the Davenport & St. Paul but which
has now been incorporated into Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul systems. It was
upon the 26th of January, 1872 that he assumed his duties, which he
has discharged with such satisfaction that, though he desired to resign his
position, the railroad would not permit it. Accordingly, as his own health
necessitated his relinquishing the heavier duties, he engaged another to perform
the work which was entrusted to him. In the years that he has been agent he has
also done considerable work upon the construction of the railroad, in more than
one way contributing to the advancement of Dixon. He has always been
particularly interested in the welfare of this community and when it was
incorporated into a village in the spring of 1909 he became one of the aldermen.
In 1861 Mr. flick was united in
marriage to Miss Anna Jackson, who was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, June 28,
1829. Her parents were John and Roxanna Jackson, natives of England and
Northumberland county, Pennsylvania, respectively. Three children have been born
to Mr. and Mrs. Flick; Carrie A., the wife of Marion Fitzgibbon, of Mount
Vernon, New York; Joseph H., who is living in Chicago and is a railroad
constructor; and Charles E., who in engaged in the same business in Illinois.
The sons were started in life with one dollar in their pockets but they have
proved successful business men and footsteps both as to occupation and as to the
means for getting ahead. These in the case of the older man have proved most
efficacious for he has so ordered his life that his employers, who have had
perhaps the best opportunity of discovering his character, are determined to
keep him upon their payroll.
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Ernst Zoller Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer--S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Zoller, Guisler, Green
Ernst Zoller, president of the Independent Brewing & Malting Company
of Davenport was born in California, May 10, 1859, a son of Ernst and Amelia (Guisler)
Zoller. The father was born in Germany, and came to Davenport in 1848, but after
a short stay, became infected with the gold fever of 1849, and went to
California, which remained his home until 1859. Having attained success in his
mining ventures, he returned to Davenport, where he embarked in a brewing
enterprise at Black Hawk, in a small way, thus continuing until his death in
1874. His widow survived him until 1906.
Ernst Zoller, Jr., was educated in the public schools and about 1885
engaged in the malt production business in conjunction with his brothers August
and Charles. In 1890 they resumed the operation of their father’s brewery at
Black Hawk. In 1895, they felt justified in establishing themselves in
Davenport, where they organized the Independent Brewing & Malting Company,
with Ernst Zoller as vice president and Herman Zoller as vice president. The
business has been remarkably profitable. Many additions and improvements have
been made to the plant and offices, which are fully equipped in the most modern
manner. Recently a new building has been added, three hundred and eighty by one
hundred and fifty feet. The business is extensive and covers a wide territory.
Mr. Zoller himself traveling considerably to look after the orders of their most
important customers. Mr. Zoller is a director of the Union Savings Bank and
interested in other concerns here.
In 1880 Mr. Zoller was married to Amelia Green, and they have three
children: Fred, who is secretary and treasurer of the company; Etta; and Lillie.
Mrs. Zoller died in 1895, and alter Mr. Zoller married her sister Lina. Mr.
Zoller belongs to the Knights of Pythias, and is popular in his lodge. He is a
good citizen, honorable in business methods, and possesses a number of warm
personal friends.
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William Pohlmann, Jr. Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Pohlmann, Ehlers, Dyke, Price
Although William Pohlmann, Jr., has been proprietor of the Iowa steam
Laundry for only about a year he has, in this brief period, built up the trade
until his is one of the important concerns of this character in Davenport. He
comes of German parentage, his birth having occurred in Davenport, December 30,
1871, a son of William and Margaret (Ehlers) Pohlmann, the former born in
Holstein, Germany, and the latter near that place. The father was reared and
educated in his native land and there learned the tailor’s trade. He came to
America in the hope that he might better earn a livelihood for himself and
family in the new world than he could in his own country. After spending some
time in New York, he continued his journey westward and became a pioneer settler
of Davenport. He is still living at the advanced age of eighty-four years, and
his wife also survives at the age of seventy-six years.
William Pohlmann, Jr., was reared under the parental roof and acquired
his elementary education in the common schools, while later he fitted himself
for a business career by pursuing a course in a commercial college. His first
business undertaking was with the Citizens National Bank of Davenport and after
a service of many years this bank was consolidated with the German Savings Bank
and Mr. Pohlmann continued with the new enterprise, serving in all about
twenty-two years with the two concerns. He was one of the bank’s most trusted
employes and no doubt could have remained indefinitely but at the end of that
time, becoming imbued with a desire to engage in an independent venture he
purchased the Iowa Steam Laundry and continued business at the old stand. The
business soon developed into a growing and profitable enterprise, so that it
became necessary to seek more spacious and commodious quarters and Mr. Pohlmann
now occupies the upper floor of the building, both floors being utilized in the
conduct of the laundry. It is fitted with the best machines of modern type,
while thirty employes are required for carrying on the work. The business has
already increased fifty per cent since it has been under the management of Mr.
Pohlmann, which is a strong indication of his capabilities and powers and if
this increase has been a strong indication of his capabilities and powers and if
this increase has been possible in one year’s time, no doubt the years to come
will bring added success.
Mr. Pohlmann was married on the 14th of May, 1902, to Miss
Anna Price, who is a representative of one of the oldest families of Davenport,
being a daughter of James and Mary Price, both of whom were born in this city.
Her paternal grandparents settled there in 1841. The grandfather was a native of
Wales, while his wife, who bore the maiden name of Ann Dyke, was born in
England. Mr. and Mrs. Pohlmann have two interesting little sons: William the
third bearing that name; and Richard.
Mr. Pohlmann is a Mason and also belongs to the Turner society and to the
Davenport Schuetzen Association. Always having the one aim in view—that of
becoming established in business for himself—he carefully saved his earnings
until the opportunity was presented that he might carry out his plans and
although he has been numbered among the independent business men of Davenport
for only a brief period he has already gained a prominent place in this rank.
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.J. T. Gasseling Bio
“From Vol. 2 History of Davenport and Scott County” by
Harry E. Downer—S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1910 Chicago
Surnames: Gasseling, Kemper, Mollenbeck, Goering, Robinson
J. T. Gasseling, one of the
prosperous farmers and stockmen of Hickory Grove township, born on the place
where he now lives February 10, 1862, a son of John Herman and Hannah Marie
(Kemper) Gasseling. The former was born on the place where he now lives February
10, 1862, a son of John Herman and Hannah Marie (Kemper) Gasseling. The former
was born in Holland, November 23, 1823, and when about thirty-one years of age
came to the United states. For about six months he worked in a lumber yard in
New York and then in the spring of 1855 came to Iowa, finding employment in a
sawmill in Davenport. He remained at that occupation only two months, however,
when he hired out as a farm hand for one hundred and twenty dollars a year and
board. The next year he worked by the month, receiving twenty dollars during the
summer and thirteen dollars during the winter. In this way he continued to live
for some time, until he had saved enough to warrant his engaging in farming for
himself. Accordingly in partnership with Will Goering he rented a tract of one
hundred and twenty acres for one year, paying three dollars an acre for it, and
at the expiration of that period leased it for five years. In 1863 the
partnership was dissolved and Mr. Gasseling bought the farm, continuing its
operation. The following year he bought eighty acres more, so that he held a
tract of two hundred acres in Hickory Grove township. It remained his home until
May 21, 1900, when he passed away.
In Davenport, in 1861, John Herman Gasseling wedded Miss Hannah Marie
Kemper, a native of Germany and unto them were born nine children: J. T., the
subject of this sketch; Johanna, the widow of Theodore Mollenbeck, of Davenport;
Maggie, the wife of John Mollenbeck, of Hickory Grove township; Mary, the wife
of William Goering of Hickory Grove township; Elizabeth, the wife of Harry
Goering, of Davenport township; Barney, a resident of Hickory Grove township;
Adelaide, the wife of Antone Mollenbeck, of the same township; Herman who died
July 9, 1906; and Henry, who passed away at the age of sixteen years. Mrs.
Gasseling died June 21, 1908.
Having been reared in Hickory Grove township, J. T. Gasseling has passed
all of his life here and has devoted his energies to farming. Until he was
twenty-six years of age he worked for his parents and after he attained his
majority received a share of the result of his labor. In 1888 he married and
began farming for himself. He continued to operate his father’s place, a part
of which he now owns, although as the years brought him success he added to his
heritage until now he is in possession of two hundred and ten acres on section
32, Hickory Grove township. In connection with his purely agricultural interests
he conducts a stock farm, making a specialty of shorthorn cattle, of which he
has a herd of about seventy head, and he also gives particular attention to the
breeding of Belgian, Percheron and hackney horses, owning a registered stallion.
He has won a well deserved success and has the good will of his associates.
In 1888 Mr. Gasseling was married to Miss Jennie Goering, who was born in
Blue Grass township, this county, in September 1861, a daughter of Henry and
Mary (Robinson) Goering. Four daughters have been born of this union: Mary,
Lillian, Blanche and Bernice.
Mr. Gasseling has always been a life-long democrat and has been active in
political and local affairs. For a number of years he has been a member of the
central committee, for the past twelve years he has been school director and for
ten years has been clerk of the township. He also fulfilled the duties of road
supervisor for a long period, served as justice of the peace for three years,
and is at present county supervisor, having been reelected after his first term
of three years to serve an equal period. In short he is a man of influence in
Hickory Grove township. Successful in his private concerns, he has also
exhibited a commendable amount of public spirit, and the citizens who have
placed reliance upon his integrity and ability have had no occasion to regret
their choice.
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